International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), Precursors and chemicals frequently used in the illicit manufacture of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, United Nations, New York

The International Narcotics Control Board’s 2015 report on precursors highlights global efforts to stop chemicals being diverted into the illicit manufacture of drugs. It points to successes achieved through international cooperation, including platforms like the Precursor Task Force, Project Prism, Project Cohesion, and the PEN Online system, which has become a key tool for monitoring chemical trade worldwide.

Despite progress, the report warns that drug production is shifting towards new, non-scheduled chemicals that fall outside existing controls. To tackle this, the Board calls for more flexible approaches, such as recognising “immediate precursors,” empowering law enforcement, and building public–private partnerships to prevent diversion at the source.